You know i been playing 20 years now and I never considered myself a lead player, and still don't I lack the finger speed and technique of a 'real' lead player.
I am feeling ever more comfortable on the fretboard though, seem to know where the notes are next that I want to play with feel rather then with a scale shape.
It's been a long time coming, and I think the lessons I have been giving other people have helped alot, since it has forced me to arrange the knowledge in my head in a presentable order, and when I do that it seems to sink in more.
Thanks for all the nice comments
